If you're reading this you likely know the benefits of consuming the proper amount of protein in your diet. But just in case, protein is essential for keeping your immune system strong, protecting it against bacteria, viruses, or other harmful foreign invaders. Protein also helps build strong muscles, bones, and joints (it's actually what they're made of). While depending on different factors such as exercise routine, diet, and other factors, an average person should consume between 2 to 2.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day. So if you weigh 160 lbs. you should consume between 64-80 grams per day (consult a dietician, doctor, or other qualified professional to suit your particular needs before starting any diets). Many weight lifters and dieters choose to be on a high protein diet. Now as with many other dieting foods, some protein-rich food are just disgusting. So here is a short list of great tasting high protein snacks for a change.
The first, and my personal favorite, is beef jerky. One ounce of jerky is about 11 grams of protein, but do watch out for the high salt content found in many brands, just look for lower salt content brands. Protein bars. Not all are created equal, but there are many different great tasting brands available that are low in fat and carbs and range in average between 10-40 grams of protein per bar. Protein shakes. Yeah, many taste bad, but try the fruit flavored shakes for the best taste. I prefer strawberry and avoid the chocolates. You'll get about 18 grams of protein per serving. Mix them up as well, as the taste of one flavor can get old fast. Anything with peanut butter. Spread it on bread, crackers, celery, you name it. Peanut butter is higher in calories and fat, so if you're dieting go for salted or unsalted peanuts. Really any nut is good as well, or sunflower seeds. There are many high protein cereals available, you can just eat it dry as a snack. Chicken sandwiches taste great, as does salmon and steak (yes, they're all technically meals, but can be cooked and cut up into smaller portions). I hate cottage cheese but too many people seem to love it. Yogurt has protein as well. Then wash it all down with a glass of milk.
So there it is. Plenty of great tasting high protein snacks. You may not love their taste, but it sure is better than eggs, sardines, and tofu. This is just a short list, there are many more great tasting high protein foods. Just remember to check labels for fat, sodium, calorie, and other important intakes and again please consult a dietician or doctor to see how much protein you should be eating.
